In the statement carried Friday by North Korea’s state news agency, the spokesman describes the report as ‘‘sheer lies’’ and says North Koreans enjoy ‘‘genuine rights.’’

The three-member commission, chaired by a retired Australian judge, on Monday recommended an international criminal investigation. It warned North Korean leader Kim Jong Un he may be held accountable for orchestrating widespread crimes against civilians.

The commission was established by the U.N. top human rights body. It conducted a yearlong investigation but was unable to visit North Korea.